Dr. Greg Bonnen explains deep brain stimulation for Parkinson's disease and essential tremor — what the procedure involves, and the kind of patient it's considered for.
What it is
Deep brain stimulation places thin electrodes in a targeted area of the brain and connects them to a small implanted device that delivers steady electrical stimulation. The settings are adjusted afterward, so treatment can be tuned to the person rather than fixed at surgery.
Who it's for
It's generally considered for people whose tremor or movement symptoms are no longer well controlled by medication. Whether it's appropriate is a conversation with a neurosurgeon, not something to decide from a video — the video is a place to start.
Stimulation settings are adjusted after surgery, so the treatment can be tuned to the person.
